Eligible for the new NHS MenB vaccine? Young people in the current Year 13 age group and eligible under-25s starting higher education or residential further education may be able to receive a free NHS MenB vaccine.
Check if you may be eligible
You may be eligible for a free NHS MenB vaccine if you are:
- Born between 1 September 2007 and 31 August 2008 — current Year 13 age group
- Under 25 and starting higher education for the first time in the 2026/27 academic year
- Under 25 and entering eligible residential further education for the first time in the 2026/27 academic year
This is a free NHS vaccination programme for eligible young people and students.
Why is the NHS offering this vaccine now?
MenB can cause meningitis and sepsis, and students moving into halls or shared accommodation are at higher risk because they mix closely with large numbers of new people.
This is a one-off, time-limited NHS programme designed to help protect eligible students before the new academic year starts.
Important: Many students had the MenACWY vaccine at school, but this does not protect against MenB.
Do not leave it until term starts
Thousands of students will be preparing for university this summer. Once term starts, appointment availability may become more limited.
If you are eligible, it is worth arranging your MenB vaccination before moving away from home.
How the MenB vaccine programme works
Step 1
Receive your NHS invitation or check whether you may be eligible.
Step 2
Book your first MenB vaccination appointment.
Step 3
Receive your second dose at least four weeks later.
Two doses are needed for protection.
What is MenB?
MenB is a serious bacterial infection that can cause:
- Meningitis
- Sepsis (blood poisoning)
- Permanent disability
- Life-threatening illness
Symptoms can include:
- High temperature
- Severe headache
- Neck stiffness
- Vomiting
- Sensitivity to light
- Confusion
- A rash that does not fade under pressure
Why should students consider MenB vaccination?
For most students, university is the first time they have lived away from home. Shared kitchens, communal bathrooms, halls of residence, lectures and social events can all increase the spread of infections.
While MenB disease is uncommon, it can be extremely serious when it occurs. The aim of the programme is to provide protection before students enter these higher-risk environments.
Getting vaccinated before term starts helps reduce the risk of serious illness and provides reassurance for both students and parents.
MenB Vaccination Locations
Students and families in Newark and Doncaster can access support through our local pharmacies.
📍 Holden’s Chemist Express, Newark (NG24 4JH)
Conveniently located in Newark, Holden’s Chemist Express supports students and families across Newark, Balderton, Fernwood and the wider Nottinghamshire area with NHS and private vaccination services.
Our pharmacy team can provide information about the NHS MenB vaccination programme and help eligible students access appointments when available.
Contact Holden’s Chemist Express Newark
📍 Holden’s Chemist Bentley, Doncaster
Supporting students across Bentley and surrounding Doncaster communities with accessible healthcare services and vaccination advice.
📍 Holden’s Chemist Scawsby, Doncaster
Providing local support for students and families preparing for university and further education.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the MenB vaccine free?
Yes. Eligible students can receive the vaccine free of charge through the NHS programme.
Do I need the MenB vaccine if I already had a meningitis vaccine at school?
Possibly. Many students received the MenACWY vaccine, which protects against meningococcal groups A, C, W and Y. The new programme specifically provides protection against MenB.
Is the MenB vaccine safe?
Yes. MenB vaccines have been used routinely within the UK vaccination programme for many years and have a well-established safety profile.
How many doses are required?
Two doses are required, with the second dose given at least four weeks after the first.
Who is eligible for the free NHS MenB vaccine?
You may be eligible if you were born between 1 September 2007 and 31 August 2008, or if you are under 25 and entering higher education or eligible residential further education for the first time in the 2026/27 academic year.
Preparing for University?
Protect Yourself Before Term Starts
The free NHS MenB vaccination programme is designed to help protect eligible students before they begin university or residential education.
Register your interest below and our outreach team will contact you with further information about upcoming clinics.